Iceland
Iceland is an island located in the Atlantic Ocean, situated between Greenland in the west and Norway in the east. Iceland’s geographical location makes it an ideal port call for cruises visiting Ireland, Scotland and Norway. It also provides a perfect stop off point for the popular transatlantic sailings via Greenland and Newfoundland.
Ideal Destination
Iceland features a variety of cruise ports along with ideal opportunities for scenic cruising and circumnavigation – all ports are well equipped for the servicing of cruise ships of all sizes.
Expedition ships are finding Iceland an increasingly popular destination as Jan Mayen, Spitsbergen and the polar ice cap are within reach.
Country and People
In environmental terms, Iceland is unique. It is a large country (103,000 km², about the same surface area as Ireland or the State of Virginia), but is sparsely populated, with only 3 persons per km² living mostly along the coast. The interior of the country contains stunning contrasts. It is largely an arctic desert, punctuated with mountains, glaciers, volcanoes and waterfalls. Most of the vegetation and agricultural areas are in the lowlands close to the coastline.
Climate
Iceland has a relatively mild coastal climate. The average summer temperature in Reykjavik, the capital, is 10.6°C/51°F in July, with average highs of 24.3°C/76°F. The average winter temperature in Reykjavik is similar to New York City's, about 0°C/32°F in January (average highs are 9. 9°C/50°C). Usually the weather is very changeable. The mild climate stems from the Gulf Stream and attendant warm ocean currents from the Gulf of Mexico. |
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